This is a collaborative post. MinaSlater.com sometimes allows collaborators to submit posts which may be helpful to its readers. Any post on this website not written by Mina Slater will be labeled accordingly. Thank you for supporting our collaborators, we hope you enjoy this post.
Traveling is great – there’s always some new city or region that you dream of once you’ve ticked off the last one. The downside of traveling is that it costs money, often lots of money, so you need to plan carefully and watch your spending once you’re in your destination.
Of course, you’re an old hand at using travel comparison sites and you can track down cheap flights in your sleep; you’re also a regular at Creditfix for its financial advice. While this is a good start, you need to extend these spending smarts to what you do during your stay. Here are five ideas for you to chew on.
Look at how much it costs to live in your destination
OK, so you found some staggeringly cheap flights to Norway and you’re feeling very pleased with yourself. Just hang on a minute, though; have you seen the price of a beer there? What about cheese? Have a look at the country’s price index before you buy those flights because your savings could be eaten up by one lunch or dinner out.
Use public transport as much as possible
It’s tempting to hop around a city in a cab because it’s quick, easy and your driver does your thinking for you. You’ll soon rack up some serious expenses, though! It’s best to take some time out to look at the trains, the buses, and the trams so that you don’t feel like such a stranger when you get to your holiday destination. Many destinations have city passes that offer discounted travel, as well as free or discounted entrance to museums and other attractions. Some places even have free public transport, like Luxembourg, so have a look and see what’s available.
Use hostel kitchens
A major expense when you’re on holiday is food and eating out. It’s great to relax in a friendly restaurant, but you can also eat through your budget if you do it every night. If you’ve made the decision to stay in a hostel while you’re away, then you’ll almost certainly have the use of a kitchen, complete with your own (small) fridge and freezer. Go to the markets, pick up some local produce and eat like a native for a few days. It’ll form part of the cultural experience and it’ll save you loads!
See if there are any free festivals while you’re there
If there are street festivals or free parties going on during your holiday, then make the effort to go to them. You’ll be able to see live bands, street performers and pick up some local food. It’ll be an experience!
Talk to locals and fellow travelers before you go and while you’re there
Spend some time on travel forums and pick up tips and pointers before you set off. When you’re on your travels, make the effort to talk to other people at the hotel or hostel and see if they’ve found a great little street of bazaars and food that’s off the beaten path and therefore much cheaper.
This is a collaborative post. MinaSlater.com sometimes allows collaborators to submit posts which may be helpful to its readers. Any post on this website not written by Mina Slater will be labeled accordingly. Thank you for supporting our collaborators, we hope you enjoy this post.